Trail Shoe: Nike Air Max Assail

Solid-hitting trail shoe loaded with cushion, durability and traction

With the Air Max Assail, Nike has come to market with a solid-hitting trail training shoe that is loaded with cushion, durability and traction. Through the combination of a PU midsole, a large Air-Sole unit in the rear, and a Phylon forefoot midsole with a protective fiber guard sandwiched between the outsole and midsole under the metatarsal, the Assail runs on the comfy side. The upper features a bevy of overlays and felt roomy for some testers, while others found it "a bit sloppy up top." The waffle outsole assured steady traction, although it wasn’t too much for fire roads and even some pavement. The Max Assail is a great shoe for trail neophytes, given its support, cushioning and traction. Regardless of trail experience, the Assail is a great buy for those who like a voluminous toe box, a narrower heel cup, and a relatively stiff ride.